Object carrier

ABSTRACT

The invention pertains to a planar packaging (1) adapted to retain a plurality of objects (12), and in particular for holding containers such as cans. Furthermore, the invention relates to an assembly comprising the packaging according to the invention, holding a set of objects.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The invention pertains to the technical field of (secondary) packagingmaterials for holding a plurality of objects, in particular for holdinga plurality of containers. More in particular, the invention pertains tosecondary packaging materials for holding beverage cans comprising arecess and/or a ledge; which in the case of e.g. a beverage can, isformed by its seam.

BACKGROUND

Carriers are used in retail environments to secure a group of objects,such as containers or receptacles, so that they may be grasped andcarried as a single unit. Manufacturers using container carriers, suchas beverage companies, may desire to purchase several container carriersfor packaging and ease of distribution of their product. While lighterproducts may be carried with substantially flat container carriers,heavier products, such as large containers of liquids, usually requirecontainer carriers with three-dimensional support structures to supporttheir weight. Such container carriers are often manufactured in onelocation and then shipped to a different location for application of thecarriers to the containers. Packaging and shipping container carrierswith such three-dimensional structures and heights can be a challenge toconduct efficiently, since their increased size often results in fewercontainer carriers per shipping box and increased shipping cost percontainer carrier. Traditionally such carriers are produced fromcardboard. However, carriers made from cardboard are susceptible tobreakage or tearing, especially when wet.

Alternatively (or in combination with paper/cardboard), use of plasticis strongly dissuaded for secondary packaging, as it is often discardedincorrectly, thereby creating or increasing pollution problems (plasticrings for holding cans). Even when overlooking incorrect disposal,non-negligible amounts of plastic tend to end up on landfills, taking upspace and breaking down only over very long periods of time (severalcenturies). Finally, when the plastic packaging is correctly disposedof, separated from other waste and recycled, it should be noted thatrecycling plastic is an inefficient process at high cost, and with itsown pollution problematics. It is furthermore in this light theapplicant felt the need to search for new solutions. Aside from theaforementioned issues, using plastics as secondary packaging requires alot of materials in terms of volume; more than is often desired toensure structural strength to hold the containers.

There remains a need in the art for improved secondary packaging forholding containers with a recess and/or ledge, radially protruding seamportion or recess portion that, amongst others, aims to facilitate itsproduction, reduce material waste, as well as providing an improvedstrength.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In a first aspect, the invention pertains to a packaging according tothe claims.

In a second aspect, the invention pertains to an assembly comprising oneor more secondary packaging carriers according to the first aspect ofthe invention, and a plurality of objects for being retained by said oneor more secondary packaging carriers.

Further advantages, features, and examples of the present invention aredisclosed in the detailed description.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The invention has been summarized in the corresponding section above. Inwhat follows, the invention is described in detail, preferredembodiments are discussed, and the invention is illustrated viaexamples.

In a particular but non-exclusive application, the present inventionconcerns a secondary packaging for holding a plurality of containers.Said containers comprise a wider section at a first end of thecontainer, and an underlying section below said wider section that is atleast partly recessed with respect to said wider section.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in disclosing the invention,including technical and scientific terms, have the meaning as commonlyunderstood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this inventionbelongs. By means of further guidance, term definitions are included tobetter appreciate the teaching of the present invention.

As used herein, the following terms have the following meanings:

“A”, “an”, and “the” as used herein refers to both singular and pluralreferents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. By way ofexample, “a compartment” refers to one or more than one compartment.

“About” as used herein referring to a measurable value such as aparameter, an amount, a temporal duration, and the like, is meant toencompass variations of +/−20% or less, preferably +/−10% or less, morepreferably +/−5% or less, even more preferably +/−1% or less, and stillmore preferably +/−0.1% or less of and from the specified value, in sofar such variations are appropriate to perform in the disclosedinvention. However, it is to be understood that the value to which themodifier “about” refers is itself also specifically disclosed.

“Comprise”, “comprising”, and “comprises” and “comprised of” as usedherein are synonymous with “include”, “including”, “includes” or“contain”, “containing”, “contains” and are inclusive or open-endedterms that specifies the presence of what follows e.g. component and donot exclude or preclude the presence of additional, non-recitedcomponents, features, element, members, steps, known in the art ordisclosed therein.

The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers andfractions subsumed within that range, as well as the recited endpoints.

The term “container” refers to a receptacle or holder for e.g. food andliquids for consumption but the invention is equally applicable tocontainers holding any type of product, where a widened (seam) portionat or near the top is followed by an inferiorly positioned portion witha lower radius, defining one or more recessed sections and/or ledges.Such containers can be cans, glass jars, bottles, steel (or othermetals) tins. Although the references to the containers are made ingeneral, taking into account possible variations on shapes and designs,the containers are typically radially symmetrical, with a seam portionwith a constant radius, and an inferior portion with a constant radiusthat is lower than that of the seam portion. In general, this seamportion is at the top, and can be an actual seam of the rolling of acan, but can also be a lid that is removable or not (such as in glassjars or bottles), or simply a widened section for aesthetic purposes.The invention specifically aims to take advantage of this feature whichis present in almost any container for storing products such as foodand/or beverages (or liquids in general).

The term “seam portion” refers to a radially protruding section of thecontainer with a larger radius than the section thereunder. Asmentioned, in general this will be present at the upper end of thecontainer (for instance a double seam created by the canning process),providing a practical pick-up section of the container for theinvention, since gravity will ensure that the containers do not moveupwards, while the carrier ensures downward retention.

The “portion directly inferior along the first direction to the seamportion” or “portion directly inferior to the seam portion” refers to a(the first) local minimum in radius of the container below the seamportion. As mentioned above, the seam portion is generally at the upperend of the container (where a container is opened), and so is theportion directly inferior to the seam portion. In most circumstances,both portions will be in a region at most 1 to 4 cm beneath the top ofthe container, and often even at most 0.5 cm from the top of thecontainer, with the seam portion being (part of) the very top.

“Retention tab” as used herein refers to any holding device known in theart, adapted to receive and retain a container. Preferably, saidretention tab is a substantially planar protrusion, protruding at leastpartially inwardly from the perimeter of the aperture at a first anglewith respect to the lower surface of said secondary packaging. Thesubstantially planar retention tab comprising an intersecting endlocated proximal to the upper surface of the secondary packaging, anupper end located distal to the upper surface of the secondarypackaging, a mid-end located between said intersecting end and saidupper end and equally spaced from said intersecting end and said upperend, and a tangent trough the mid end to the upper end of said retentiontab.

The “perimeter” of the aperture is an opening with the same generalcontour as the object to be retained. This means that for holding cans,containers, etc., the perimeter will generally be circular or polygonal.However, for ‘deviating’ objects to be retained, other apertures can beenvisioned as well, having a more irregular shape.

In a first aspect, the invention pertains to a packaging for holding aplurality of objects, preferably containers, wherein the packagingsubstantially comprises, and preferably consists of, metal. Thepackaging is substantially planar and comprises a plate, said platebeing provided with a plurality of apertures for holding the objects,said apertures extending through the plate, preferably said aperturesbeing provided in a grid formation comprising a longitudinal (X)direction and a transverse (Y) direction, more preferably whereby saidapertures are equally spaced apart in both the longitudinal (X) and thetransverse (Y) direction. Each of the apertures comprises a perimeterand one or more, preferably at least three, resilient retention tabs areprovided on said perimeter, extending from said perimeter at leastpartially inwardly. The above packaging ensure structural strengththereof, while limiting the material thickness as much as possible.

In a preferred embodiment, the retention tabs of an empty apertureprotrude at least partially inwardly from the perimeter of each apertureat a first angle with respect to the plate of the packaging. Saidretention tabs are adapted to undergo an at least partially elasticdeformation upon insertion of the objects, and whereby the retentiontabs of an aperture occupied by an object, protrude at least partiallyinwardly from said perimeter at a second angle with respect to the plateof said packaging, preferably whereby said first and second angle aresubstantially different. It should be understood that the aperture andretention tabs at hand are dimensioned to allow for passage of theobject to be retained through the aperture when disregarding theretention tabs, but not allowing direct passage of said object in thepresence of the retention tabs. Of course, the retention tabs areadapted to allow some (at least partially elastic) deformation to ensurethat the object can be introduced.

In a more preferred embodiment, the first angle ranges between 10° and60° with respect to the plate, preferably between 20° and 55°, morepreferably between 40° and 50°. The second angle ranges between 20° and70° with respect to the plate, preferably between 30° and 65°, morepreferably between 40° and 60°. It is noted that the elastic limit ofthe retention tabs is likely not negatively affected upon receiving,retaining and releasing a container, thus, allowing for an intensive useof the packaging. “Elastic limit” as used herein refers to the maximumstress or force per unit area within a solid material that can arisebefore the onset of permanent deformation, preferably before the onsetof about 0.1% permanent deformation

In a preferred embodiment, a ratio of said first angle to said secondangle of a retention tab ranges from 9:1 to 1:9, more preferably saidratio ranges from 8:1 to 1:8, more preferably said ratio ranges from 7:1to 1:7, more preferably said ratio ranges from 6:1 to 1:6, morepreferably said ratio ranges from 5:1 to 1:5, more preferably said ratioranges from 4:1 to 1:4, more preferably said ratio ranges from 3:1 to1:3, more preferably said ratio ranges from 2:1 to 1:2, most preferablysaid ratio is about 1:1. A ratio of said first angle to said secondangle ranging from 9:1 to 1:9 is beneficial for receiving andsubsequently retaining a container. A ratio of said first angle to saidsecond angle ranging from 3:1 to 1:3 is more beneficial for receivingand subsequently retaining a container. A ratio of said first angle tosaid second angle of about 1:1 is even more beneficial for receiving andsubsequently retaining a container.

In a preferred embodiment, the retention tabs extend from the perimeterof the aperture over a minimal distance of 0.50 mm, preferably 1.0 mm,more preferably at least 1.25 mm.

In a preferred embodiment, the perimeter of the apertures is polygonal,preferably regularly polygonal, whereby the retention tabs are providedon the edges of said substantially polygonal perimeter.

With reference to FIG. 7 and in a preferred embodiment, each retentiontab is provided with one or more indented recess sections (26) providedat the non-attached side of each retention tab, said indented recesssection being indented towards the perimeter of the aperture, therebyforming a humped structure in the retention tab. It is noted that byproviding one or more indented recess sections, as configured above, theobjects are more easily received, retained and released from anaperture. This improved functionality is in part caused by a largercontact surface between each object and the retention tab. A largercontact surface between the object and the packaging, allows for a moredelicate force distribution across the apertures. Thus, by providing oneor more indented recess sections at the non-attached side of a retentiontab, the receiving and releasing threshold value may be lowered withoutaffecting the retention capacity of the apertures. Moreover, it is notedthat objects are less likely damaged upon insertion or release from apackaging configured with indented recess sections as described above.Even furthermore, the deformation of the retention tabs for passing thewider part of the object is reduced, without however reducing (in facteven reinforcing) the strength with which the objects are held in thepackaging.

In a preferred embodiment, the retention tabs are positioned overregular intervals on the perimeter of the apertures, wherein saidapertures being provided in a grid formation comprising a longitudinal(X) direction and a transverse (Y) direction, more preferably wherebysaid apertures are equally spaced apart in both the longitudinal (X) andthe transverse (Y) direction, and wherein each aperture is rotated withrespect to each adjacent aperture positioned in both said longitudinaldirection (X) and transverse direction (Y), preferably whereby eachaperture is rotated over 180° divided by the number of retention tabswith respect to each adjacent aperture. Such configuration has theadvantage that the distance between each adjacent aperture is maximizedwithout substantially increasing the size of the secondary packaging.Such methodology furthermore prevents wear or breakage and increases thelife-span of the secondary packaging.

In a preferred embodiment, around at least one, preferably all, of theapertures, the plate is provided with one or more weakened line sectionsor notches at zones adjoining to the perimeter of said aperturewherefrom the retention tabs extend, preferably whereby said weakenedline sections or notches define a generally U or V shaped form, andwhereby the opening of said U or V shaped form is directed towards theperimeter of aperture.

In a preferred embodiment, around at least one, preferably all, of theapertures (2), the plate is provided with one or more weakened linesections at zones adjoining to the perimeter of said aperture (2)wherefrom the retention tabs extend, whereby the one or more weakenedline sections extend over at least part of said perimeter wherefrom theretention tabs extend.

In a further preferred embodiment, said weakened line sections aredefined by a reduced thickness of the plate by at least 25%, preferablyat least 50%, more preferably at least 75%, most preferably by 100% withrespect to the rest of the plate.

In a preferred embodiment, the plate consists of metal, preferablyaluminum and/or an aluminum alloy.

In a preferred embodiment, the plate is provided with rolled edges overthe perimeter of the plate, said rolled edges preferably extending overat least 2 mm in height from the plate.

In a preferred embodiment, the plate comprises two finger loopsextending through the plate and wherein the plate is provided withrolled edges over the perimeter of the finger loops, said rolled edgespreferably extending over at least 2 mm in height from the plate.

In a preferred embodiment, the retention tabs of an unoccupied aperturedefine an inscribed loop which is smaller than the maximal cross-sectionof the to be retained object that is to be introduced in the aperture,while the aperture without the retention tabs defines an inscribed loopthat is larger than said maximal cross-section. In order for thereceiving apertures to receive an object, a user has to exert a force tothe object, or on the packaging, exceeding a receiving threshold value.“Receiving threshold value” as used herein refers to the force needed todeform the retention tabs substantially perpendicular to the plate. Bydeforming the retention tabs substantially perpendicularly, passage ofthe object is allowed. In order for the apertures to release an object,a user has to exert a force exceeding a releasing threshold value.“Releasing threshold value” as used herein refers to the force needed todeform the retention tabs substantially perpendicularly to the plate. Bydeforming the retention tabs in said direction, the object is released.Preferably, the releasing threshold value is greater than thegravitational force exerted on an object upon lifting the packaging. Forexample, in the event that a container would weigh about 400 g it wouldexert force of about 4 N to the package. As a consequence, in order forthe apertures to release said container, a user has to exert a force tothe container substantially larger than 4 N. Preferably, said releasingthreshold value falls within a range of about 4 to 23 N, preferablywithin a range of about 5 to 22 N, preferably within a range of about 6to 21 N, preferably within a range of about 7 to 20 N, preferably withina range of about 8 to 19 N, preferably within a range of about 9 to 18N, preferably within a range of about 10 to 17 N, preferably within arange of about 11 to 16 N, most preferably within a range of about 12 to15 N. It is noted that releasing threshold values within a range ofabout 4 to 23 N allow for an easy detachment of the container.

In a possible embodiment, the tabs are provided non-symmetrically overthe perimeter of the aperture. Such a formation can allow for certaindirections to allow an easier release of the held object when applyingforce in a certain direction. For instance, more and/or longer and/orwider tabs can be provided over certain regions (preferably in such acase on both opposite sides of the perimeter) to create a strongerretention, while less and/or shorter tabs at other regions to provide a‘favored’ release direction. In a particular embodiment, more and/orlonger tabs are provided in regions that are positioned around theintersection of a line connecting the center of the aperture with thecenter of the packaging (or the closest finger loop or other grippingmeans) with the perimeter. This way, when carried, the objects willgenerally, under the influence of gravity, tilt along this line,creating more pressure there. The added support increases the insurancethat the objects do not come loose. Inversely, by applying forceperpendicular to the above line, an easy release is possible.

Moreover, one can provide more and/or longer and/or wider tabs at thefar side of the aperture (with respect to the center of the packaging)than at the close side of the aperture. This way, when carrying thepackaging, the objects will mainly rest on the stronger far-side tabs.When wishing to detach an object, the user will apply force to tilt theobject with its bottom away from the center, thereby overcoming thelesser retention force of the inner-side tabs and allowing easydecoupling.

The packaging is substantially planar and has a maximal thickness of 5.0mm, preferably 2.5 mm. A packaging with a maximal thickness of about 5.0mm is light and thus easy to use. Preferably, the packaging has athickness in the range of about 0.1 mm to 2.5 mm, more preferably athickness in the range of about 0.2 mm to 2.4 mm, more preferably athickness in the range of about 0.3 mm to 2.3 mm, more preferably athickness in the range of about 0.4 mm to 2.2 mm, more preferably athickness in the range of about 0.5 mm to 2.1 mm, more preferably athickness in the range of about 0.6 mm to 2.0 mm, more preferably athickness in the range of about 0.7 mm to 1.9 mm, more preferably athickness in the range of about 0.8 mm to 1.8 mm, more preferably athickness in the range of about 0.9 mm to 1.7 mm, more preferably athickness in the range of about 1.0 mm to 1.6 mm, more preferably athickness in the range of about 1.1 mm to 1.5 mm to most preferably athickness in the range of about 1.2 mm to 1.4 mm.

In a preferred embodiment, the plate of the packaging has a thicknesscomprised between 0.05 mm and 2.50 mm. Preferably, the thickness iscomprised between 0.075 mm and 2.25 mm, more preferably between 0.10 mmand 2.00 mm, even more preferably between 0.15 mm and 1.50 mm; between0.20 mm and 1.25 mm; between 0.25 mm and 1.00 mm; between 0.275 mm and0.75 mm; between 0.30 mm and 0.50 mm; between 0.325 mm and 0.40 mm.

Preferably, retention tabs have substantially the same thickness as theplate of the packaging. A maximal thickness of 2.50 mm, preferablymaximally 1.0 mm, is beneficial for receiving and retaining a container.A thickness in the range of about 0.1 mm to 2.5 mm is beneficial as thepackaging won't bend upon holding a plurality of containers. Retentiontabs having a maximal thickness of 5.0 mm, preferably 2.5 mm, provide areceiving threshold value that is easily bridged by a user, while stillproviding a sufficient releasing threshold value to retain thecontainers upon lifting the packaging. Moreover, the applicant notedthat retention tabs having a maximal thickness of 5.0 mm have asufficiently high elastic limit to allow intensive use of the retentiontabs. The applicant also noted that that retention tabs having a maximalthickness of 2.5 mm, allow for an even higher elastic limit, therebyallowing for an even more intensive use of the retention tabs. Moreover,the applicant also noted that materials with a thickness of less than0.05 mm are too brittle to be used as a packaging or as a retention tab.

Preferably, the aperture is polygonal, and the substantially polygonalperimeter comprises 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17,18, 19 or 20 vertices. Preferably, the substantially polygonal perimetercomprises 4, 6 or 8 vertices. Preferably, the substantially polygonalperimeter comprises 6 vertices. Preferably said substantially polygonalperimeter is regular.

Preferably, the vertices and/or the retention tabs of said substantiallypolygonal perimeters are blunt. Preferably said vertices and/or sideedges being rolled edges. Blunt vertices and/or edges have the advantagethat a user is not able to cut him/herself when inserting and/orreleasing the containers. Moreover, blunt vertices have the advantagethat containers are not damaged when inserted and/or released. Rollededges are easily produced.

Preferably, the retention tabs extend over a length of about 5 to 95% ofthe length of the edges of the substantially polygonal perimeter of anaperture, preferably the retention tabs extend over a length of about 10to 90%, preferably the retention tabs extend over a length of about 15to 85%, preferably the retention tabs extend over a length of about 20to 80%, preferably the retention tabs extend over a length of about 25to 75%, preferably the retention tabs extend over a length of about 30to 70%, preferably the retention tabs extend over a length of about 35to 65%, preferably the retention tabs extend over a length of about 30to 60%. Retention tabs extending over a length of about 5 to 95% of thelength of the edges of the substantially polygonal perimeter of anaperture facilitate the receiving and releasing of objects. Thus, thereceiving and releasing threshold value may be lowered without affectingthe retention capacity of the apertures.

According to a specific embodiment, at least one or two, preferably all,of the retention tabs are coiled. Said retention tabs are preferablycoiled in at least 2 revolutions. More preferably, in at least threerevolutions. The coiled retention tabs are substantially bendablerelative to the perimeter of the aperture and are adapted to receive andretain an object at its recesses, under a laterally projecting orprotruding part of the object. The retention tabs protrude at leastpartially inwardly from said perimeter at a coiled angle with respect tothe upper surface of said packaging. A user would just need to click theobject in the aperture. To remove the objects from the packaging, theuser would simply need to pull the objects out of the apertures. Coiledretention tabs are easy to produce, with coiled retention tabs made outof metal being especially advantageous. Because of the properties ofmetals and the coiled structure of the retention tabs, the tabs canundergo an elastic deformation, allowing these to at least partiallyreturn to their original shape once the object is removed from theaperture. The previous is advantageous, as it results in a highdurability of the packaging, whereby the packaging can be reusedmultiple times, thereby reducing the environmental impact of thepackaging.

With reference to FIG. 4 and according to a further specific embodiment,each coiled retention tab comprises an outer edge perimeter (23) and aninner edge perimeter (24). Preferably, the ratio of said inner diameterto said outer diameter is at most 0.9, preferably at most 0.8, more atmost 0.7, even more preferably at most 0.6. Preferably, the ratio ofsaid inner diameter to said outer diameter is at least 0.1, preferablyat least 0.2, more preferably at least 0.3, even more preferably atleast 0.4. It is noted that the above-mentioned ratio of at most 0.9 andat least 0.1, allows for the container to be retained by the coiledretention tabs, while the coiled retention tabs retained their elasticdeformation functionality.

According to a further specific embodiment, a deformation from anunoccupied position of the retention tabs to a position of the retentiontabs allowing passage of the object to be retained, whereby theretention tabs are substantially equally deformed, is for at least 10%preferably 20%, more preferably 30%, even more preferably 40%, even morepreferably 50%, even more preferably 60%, even more preferably 70%, evenmore preferably 80%, even more preferably 90%, even more preferably100%, an elastic deformation. The applicant remarks that an elasticdeformation of at least 10% results in that the coiled retention tabs ofthe aperture can be reused, without the need for the user to manuallyreturn the original shape of the coiled retention tabs in order toretain their functionality. It is further noted that an elasticdeformation of at least 40% further significantly increases thedurability of the packaging.

According to a further specific embodiment disclosed in FIG. 4, theaperture (2) comprises a centre and said coiled retention tabs (3)comprise an aperture end (21) located radially proximal to the centre ofthe aperture in the plate, and a distal end (19) located radially distalto the centre of the aperture. Preferably, the perpendicular distancebetween the aperture end and the distal end of the coiled retention tabis at least 0.1 mm, preferably 0.2 mm, more preferably 0.3 mm, even morepreferably 0.4 mm, even more preferably 0.5 mm, even more preferably 0.6mm, even more preferably 0.7 mm, even more preferably 0.8 mm, even morepreferably 0.9 mm, even more preferably 1 mm, in an unoccupied aperture.Preferably, the perpendicular distance between the aperture and distalend is at most 20 mm, preferably 18 mm, more preferably 16 mm, even morepreferably 14 mm, even more preferably 12 mm, even more preferably 10mm, even more preferably 8 mm, even more preferably 6 mm, in anunoccupied aperture. The perpendicular distance between the aperture anddistal end of at least 0.5 mm and at most 8 mm of the coiled retentiontabs is especially advantageous for retaining one or more containers inthe secondary packaging.

In a preferred embodiment, the coiled retention tabs have a varyingthickness over the width of the tab, preferably wherein the coiledretention tabs have a thickness profile which is highest centrally anddiminishes towards the periphery of each tab. By varying the thicknessof the coiled retention tabs, the retention strength and flexibility canbe varied and chosen carefully over the width of the tabs. By increasingthe thickness at the center, more retention can be created there, whereit is most necessary. The fringes can then have a declining thickness,and a declining retention strength to allow release once the center is‘breached’.

According to a further specific embodiment, the coiled retention tabsare spirally coiled around an axis. Preferably, said axis issubstantially perpendicular to the radial direction originating fromsaid retention edge section and substantially parallel to the plane ofthe packaging. It is noted that by spirally coiling the retention tabs,the elasticity of the deformation of the sections is improved.

Preferably, the coiled retention tabs comprise a bend line. Preferably,said bend line is substantially perpendicular to the radial directionoriginating from said retention tabs and substantially parallel to theplane of the packaging.

According to a specific embodiment of the invention, the secondarypackaging may comprise a material other than metal, e.g. cardboard.According to another specific embodiment of the invention, the secondarypackaging may comprise plastic.

Preferably, the coiled retention tabs in a number of revolutions orlayers, wherein each layer is distanced from its neighboring layers of acertain distance, allowing the coiled tab to flex. When pressured, thedistance between the layers can change, thereby dividing the pressureand strain over multiple zones and sections to avoid plasticdeformation.

According to a specific embodiment the outer surfaces of the secondarypackaging may be treated using any metal surface treating agent known inthe art. Preferably, said outer surfaces are treated using a coating.Preferably, said coating is an anti-oxidizing coating. According to aspecific embodiment, said coating may comprise a pigment. According to afurther specific embodiment, the outer surface of the secondarypackaging may comprise a functional enhancement indicator. “Functionalenhancement indicator” as used herein refers to any indication or signalperceptible to the user that draws the user's attention to afunctionally-distinguishable portion of the secondary packaging. Forexample, such functional enhancement indicator may indicate theretention tabs or a reinforced portion, preferably consisting of metal,anywhere on the secondary packaging. Secondary packaging materialssubstantially comprising metal can easily be re-used. Packagingmaterials substantially comprising metal are less prone to wear,cracking or breakage, compared to for example cardboard or plasticpackaging materials. Moreover, in case the containers would be e.g.metal cans, its production and the production of the secondary packageaccording to the present invention could be coordinated with each other,taking advantage of any material stocks used already for producing thecontainers themselves, which usually comprise, if not consist of, metal,and specifically aluminum alloys. Aside from making use of existingmaterial stock, thereby increasing efficiency and costs, the choice formetal is also ecologically inspired, as metal components can be recycledmuch easier than plastics which have been heavily used until now insecondary packaging.

In a preferred embodiment, the packaging itself is essentially planar,with a limited thickness. Most preferably, the packaging isrectangularly-shaped, preferably with rounded corners.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, an example of which is shown inFIGS. 10 and 11, in combination with FIG. 5, the packaging is providedwith one or more notches (27) around at least one aperture, preferablyaround all apertures. The notches (27) are provided at one or more ofthe retention tabs at said at least one aperture (2), preferably at allof the retention tabs. The notches are weakened sections of thepackaging, and can be pressed, cut, perforated or provided via othermeans, and preferably extend in one direction, with a limited width(most preferably linear or slightly curved). The notches can be providedin the form of a reduced thickness of the packaging material, with aminimal reduction of 25%, preferably minimally 50% or even 75%, but canalso be full through-opening (‘full cut’). The goal of these notches isto provide sections where the packaging can flex, in order to divide thedeformation when a container is introduced past the retention tabs.Without the notches, the retention tabs will generally undergo thegreatest part of the deformation. By however providing the notches, thepart of the packaging around the aperture (and more exactly, the partbetween the notches and the retention tab), will subsume part of thedeformation originally only carried by the retention tabs, therebylessening the deformation thereof, and further ensuring elasticdeformation. It is noted that further reduction of thickness may improvethe redistribution of forces and deformation; with the best resultsfound at a full cut notch.

In a most preferred embodiment, the notch(es) form a cupped sectionbetween the notches and the retention tab. This can be provided by thenotch(es) forming a ‘V’ or ‘U’ shape, with the opening of the ‘V’ or ‘U’facing the retention tab, and whereby the ‘V’ or ‘U’ can be defined byseparate notches (for instance, each leg of the V being a separatenotch, which are spatially distanced). It is noted that a linear notchtangential to the aperture, where the retention tab is present butspatially distanced therefrom, may also be advantageous, though to alesser extent than the previous embodiments.

Furthermore, It is noted that two or more sets of V, U and/or linearnotches can be provided radially subsequent to each other, to evenfurther divide force and deformation. An embodiment with two notchesforming a V-shaped weakened section for a retention tab can be seen inFIGS. 10 and 11.

Furthermore, it is noted that the notches can also be applied to thecoiled retention tabs.

Preferably, in case of multiple notches per retention tab (see FIG. 10),these are provided symmetrically with respect to each other, and do notextend further than 2.0 cm from the most extended part of the retentiontab, preferably not further than 1.0 cm and most preferably at most 0.75cm.

The notches have a minimal width (in the plane of the packaging plate)of 0.10 mm, preferably at least 0.20 or 0.25 mm. Preferably, the notcheshave a maximal width of 0.50 mm, more preferably at most 0.35 mm.

In a second aspect, the invention pertains to an assembly comprising asecondary packaging according to the present invention holding aplurality of objects. Each of the objects comprises a ledge and/or arecessed cross-sectional outer section at a first end of the object,said recessed outer section being at least partly, preferably entirely,inwardly recessed with respect to an adjoining outer section adjoiningsaid recessed outer section, said adjoining outer section proximal tothe first end of the object. The aperture provided in the plate of thesecondary package according to the present invention, withoutconsidering the retention tabs, is adapted to allow passage of theobjects at said first end at least up to the recessed outer section. Theretention tabs, positioned on the perimeter of the apertures, extendinwardly over a distance so as to all extend into the recessed outersection when the object is inserted into the aperture with the first endof the object. This allows an easy pick-up and retention afterwards, ofthe objects.

The recessed portion may be the result of the object being provided witha ledge portion, similar to the seam of a can.

In a variation, the invention pertains to an assembly comprising a firstand a second secondary packaging and a plurality of objects, said firstand secondary packaging each being a packaging according to the firstaspect of the invention. Each of the objects comprises a first and asecond recessed cross-sectional outer section on opposite ends of theobjects, said first recessed outer section at least partly, preferablyentirely, inwardly recessed in view of a first adjoining outer sectionadjoining said first recessed outer section, said first adjoining outersection proximal to the first end of the object, and said secondrecessed outer section at least partly, preferably entirely, inwardlyrecessed in view of a second adjoining outer section adjoining saidsecond recessed outer section, said second adjoining outer sectionproximal to the second end of the object. The aperture of the firstsecondary packaging without considering the retention tabs thereof isadapted to allow passage of the objects at said first end at least up tothe first recessed outer section, and wherein the retention tabs extendinwardly over a distance so as to all extend into the first recessedouter section when the object is inserted into the aperture with thefirst end of the object. The aperture of the second secondary packagingwithout considering the retention tabs thereof is adapted to allowpassage of the objects at said second end at least up to the secondrecessed outer section, and wherein the retention tabs extend inwardlyover a distance so as to all extend into the second recessed outersection when the object is inserted into the aperture with the secondend of the object.

In a particular embodiment of both aspects, the objects are containers,such as cans or bottles. In a most preferred embodiment, the objects arecylindrical containers, preferably cans, comprising a (double) seamalong the perimeter of the first end of the container, said (double)seam functioning as the adjoining outer section proximal to the firstend of the object. Preferably, said containers are beverage cans.Preferably, said containers are soda cans or beer cans. Preferably, saidcontainers are beer cans.

Preferably, the difference between the radius of the adjoining outersection and the radius of the recessed outer section of the containersis at least 0.05 mm, preferably the difference between said radii is atleast 0.10 mm, preferably the difference between said radii is at least0.15 mm, preferably the difference between said radii is at least 0.20mm, preferably the difference between said radii is at least 0.25 mm,preferably the difference between said radii is at least 0.30 mm,preferably the difference between said radii is at least 0.35 mm,preferably the difference between said radii is at least about 0.40 mm,preferably the difference between said radii is at least about 0.45 mm,preferably the difference between said radii is at least about 0.50 mm.Preferably, the difference between the radius of the adjoining outersection and the radius of the recessed outer section falls within arange of about 0.05 to 1.0 mm, preferably within a range of about 0.10to 0.95 mm, preferably within a range of about 0.15 to 0.90 mm,preferably within a range of about 0.20 to 0.85 mm, preferably within arange of about 0.30 to 0.80 mm, preferably within a range of about 0.25to 0.80 mm, preferably within a range of about 0.30 to 0.75 mm,preferably within a range of about 0.35 to 0.70 mm, preferably within arange of about 0.40 to 0.65 mm, preferably within a range of about 0.45to 0.60 mm, preferably within a range of about 0.45 to 0.55 mm, mostpreferably the difference between said radii is about 0.5 mm. Containerswhereby the difference between said radii is at least 0.05 mm are widelycommercially available.

The present invention is not restricted to any form of realizationdescribed previously and modifications can be added without reappraisalof the appended claims. For example, the present invention has beendescribed referring to containers, e.g. beverage containers, but it isclear that the invention can be applied to any container or recipientwhich is provided with a ledge or protruding seam at or near the topunder which a recess is thus present (not necessarily in a recededposition relative to inferior sections of the container), which can beused for retention purposes. Furthermore, the protruding seam is notnecessary present over the entire circumference of the container but canbe provided as separate protrusions under which a recess is thuspresent.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a container 12 comprising a recessedcross-section outer section 16, and an overlying adjoining outer section13 with a larger radius. Said adjoining outer section 13 describes acircumscribed circle with a radius larger than the radius of thecircumscribed circle of the recessed outer section 16 positioneddirectly beneath said adjoining outer section 13. The container 12further comprises a distal end 15 and a proximal end 14.

FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the packaging 1according to the present invention for holding a plurality of objects,or in particular containers 12. The secondary packaging 1 comprises aplurality of apertures 2 extending separately through the plane of thepackaging 1. According to the current embodiment, the apertures 2 areprovided in a grid formation comprising a longitudinal direction (X) 5and a transverse direction (Y) 6. According to the current embodiment,the apertures 2 are equally spaced apart in both said longitudinaldirection (X) 5 and transverse direction (Y) 6. Each aperture 2 isrotated with respect to each adjacent aperture 2 positioned in both saidlongitudinal direction (X) 5 and transverse direction (Y) 6. Theapertures 2 of the current embodiment comprise six vertices 9. Saidapertures 2 are rotated about 30° with respect to each adjacent aperture2. The apertures 2 are provided with retention tabs 3 (not shown). Thesecondary packaging is further provided with finger loops 4. Said fingerloops 4 extend through the plane of the secondary packaging 1 having aperimeter that can take various forms including circular, angular, or acombination thereof.

FIG. 3 shows an embodiment of an assembly according to the presentinvention.

FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of a cross section of an aperture 2 of asecondary packaging comprising one or more coiled retention tabs and acontainer 12, positioned underneath the aperture, comprising a widersection 13 (ledge) and a recessed section 16 directly inferior to thewider portion 13, underneath the aperture. The coiled retention tab 3comprising a distal end 19, an upper end 20, an aperture end 21, a lowerend 22, an outer edge perimeter 23, an inner edge perimeter 24.

FIGS. 5 and 6 show a top view of an embodiment of the secondarypackaging 1 according to the present invention. Preferably, thesecondary packaging 1 comprises six apertures 2. Preferably, theapertures 2 are positioned in a 2×3 grid. Preferably, each aperture 2comprises four coiled retention tabs 3. Preferably, each coiledretention tab 3 comprises a distal end 19 and an aperture end 21.Preferably, said coiled retention tabs 3, of an unoccupied aperture 2,define an inscribed circle or loop 7. Preferably, the secondarypackaging comprises two finger loops 4.

FIG. 7 shows a detailed top view of an embodiment of the secondarypackaging 1 according to the present invention. Said embodiment is alsoshown in FIG. 6. Each retention tab as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 isprovided with one indented recess section 26, which has a lower minimaldistance to the perimeter of the aperture than the directly surroundingsections 25. Such recess sections 26 are provided at the non-attachedside of each retention tab. Such retention tabs are “camel hump-shaped”,the two humps 25 adjacent to the recess section 26, and provide a largercontact surface between each container and each container receivingaperture. The two ‘humped’ sections 25 along with the recess section 26provide for a retention tab in this embodiment. Note that the recesssection 26 and humped sections 25 are exaggerated in order to clearlyshow said features.

FIGS. 8 and 9 show a detailed cross-section view of an embodiment of thesecondary packaging. Said embodiment is for example also shown in FIG.5. The right end of the cross-section views show a rolled edge 9provided at a retention tab. The retention tabs 3 of an unoccupiedaperture 2 protrude at least partially inwardly from said perimeter ofeach aperture 2 at a first angle with respect to the lower surface ofsaid secondary packaging 1. Said first angle is illustrated in FIG. 8.The retention tabs 3 form gripping jaws upon receiving and retainingsaid container 12, whereby said gripping jaws protrude at leastpartially inwardly from said perimeter at a second angle with respect tothe lower surface of said secondary packaging 1. Said second angle isillustrated in FIG. 9. The left end of the cross-section view shows arolled edge 9 provided at a side edge of an essentially rectangularsecondary packaging. Such packaging is for example shown in figure and5.

FIG. 10 shows a detailed top view of an embodiment of the inventionwhere notches 27 are provided in a V-shape in the packaging 1 at aretention tab 3.

FIG. 11 shows a general top view of an embodiment of the secondarypackaging according to the invention, where V-shaped notches 27 areprovided at the retention tabs 3 of one of the apertures 2.

It is assumed that the present invention is not restricted to theembodiments described above and that some modifications of, or changesto the examples described can be added without reassessment of theattached claims.

1. Packaging for holding a plurality of objects, preferably containers,said packaging being substantially planar and comprising a plate; saidplate being provided with a plurality of apertures for holding theobjects, said apertures extending through the plate, preferably saidapertures being provided in a grid formation comprising a longitudinaldirection and a transverse direction, more preferably whereby saidapertures are equally spaced apart in both the longitudinal and thetransverse direction; wherein each of the apertures comprises aperimeter and one or more, preferably at least three, resilientretention tabs are provided on said perimeter, extending from saidperimeter at least partially inwardly; wherein the packagingsubstantially comprises, and preferably consists of, metal, wherein atleast one, preferably each, retention tab is coiled, preferably wherebysaid coiled retention tabs comprising an outer edge perimeter and aninner edge perimeter, the ratio of said inner edge perimeter to saidouter edge perimeter being at most 0.7 and at least 0.2.
 2. Packagingaccording to claim 1, wherein the retention tabs are positioned overregular intervals on the perimeter of the apertures, wherein saidapertures being provided in a grid formation comprising a longitudinaldirection and a transverse direction, more preferably whereby saidapertures are equally spaced apart in both the longitudinal and thetransverse direction, and wherein each aperture is rotated over about180° divided by the number of retention tabs with respect to eachadjacent aperture with respect to each adjacent aperture positioned inboth said longitudinal direction and transverse direction.
 3. Packagingaccording to claim 1, wherein the coiled retention tabs have a varyingthickness over the width of the tab, preferably wherein the coiledretention tabs have a thickness profile which is highest centrally anddiminishes towards the periphery of each tab.
 4. Packaging according toclaim 1, wherein the retention tabs are provided non-symmetrically overthe perimeter of the aperture.
 5. Packaging according to claim 1,wherein the retention tabs of an empty aperture protrude at leastpartially inwardly from said perimeter of each aperture at a first anglewith respect to the plate of said packaging; whereby said retention tabsundergo an at least partially elastic deformation upon insertion of theobjects, and whereby the retention tabs of an aperture occupied by anobject, protrude at least partially inwardly from said perimeter at asecond angle with respect to the plate of said packaging; preferablywhereby said first and second angle are substantially different. 6.Packaging according to claim 5, wherein the first angle ranges between10° and 60° with respect to the plate, preferably between 20° and 55°,more preferably between 40° and 50°; and wherein the second angle rangesbetween 20° and 70° with respect to the plate, preferably between 30°and 65°, more preferably between 40° and 60°.
 7. Packaging according toclaim 1, wherein the plate has a thickness ranging between 0.05 mm and1.0 mm, preferably between 0.1 mm and 0.25 mm.
 8. Packaging according toclaim 1, wherein the retention tabs extend from the perimeter of theconvex hull of the perimeter of the aperture over a minimal distance of0.50 mm, preferably 1.0 mm.
 9. Packaging according to claim 1, whereinthe perimeter of the apertures is polygonal, preferably regularlypolygonal, whereby the retention tabs are provided on the edges of saidsubstantially polygonal perimeter.
 10. Packaging according to claim 1,wherein each retention tab is provided with one or more indented recesssections provided at the non-attached side of each retention tab, saidindented recess section being indented towards the perimeter of theaperture, thereby forming a humped structure in the retention tab. 11.Packaging according to claim 1, wherein around at least one, preferablyall, of the apertures, the plate is provided with one or more weakenedline sections at zones adjoining to the perimeter of said aperturewherefrom the retention tabs extend, preferably whereby said, the saidweakened line sections define a generally U or V shaped form, andwhereby the opening of said U or V shaped form is directed towards theperimeter of aperture.
 12. Packaging according to claim 11, wherein saidweakened line sections are defined by a reduced thickness of the plateby at least 25%, preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 75%,most preferably by 100% with respect to the rest of the plate. 13.Packaging according to claim 1, wherein around at least one, preferablyall, of the apertures, the plate is provided with one or more weakenedline sections at zones adjoining to the perimeter of said aperturewherefrom the retention tabs extend, whereby the one or more weakenedline sections extend over at least part of said perimeter wherefrom theretention tabs extend.
 14. Packaging according to claim 1, wherein theplate consists of metal, preferably aluminum and/or an aluminum alloy,and wherein the plate is provided with rolled edges over the perimeterof the plate, said rolled edges preferably extending over at least 2 mmin height from the plate.
 15. Packaging according to claim 1, whereinthe plate comprises two finger loops extending through the plate andwherein the plate is provided with rolled edges over the perimeter ofthe finger loops, said rolled edges preferably extending over at least 2mm in height from the plate.
 16. Packaging according to claim 1, whereinthe packaging consists of metal, preferably of aluminum and/or analuminum alloy.
 17. Assembly comprising a secondary packaging and aplurality of objects, said secondary packaging being a packagingaccording to claim 1; wherein each of the objects comprises a recessedcross-sectional outer section at a first end of the object, saidrecessed outer section being at least partly, preferably entirely,inwardly recessed with respect to an adjoining outer section adjoiningsaid recessed outer section, said adjoining outer section proximal tothe first end of the object; and wherein the aperture withoutconsidering the retention tabs is adapted to allow passage of theobjects at said first end at least up to the recessed outer section,wherein the retention tabs extend inwardly over a distance so as to allextend into the recessed outer section when the object is inserted intothe aperture with the first end of the object.
 18. Assembly comprising afirst and a second secondary packaging and a plurality of objects, saidfirst and secondary packaging each being a packaging according to claim1; wherein each of the objects comprises a first and a second recessedcross-sectional outer section on opposite ends of the objects, saidfirst recessed outer section at least partly, preferably entirely,inwardly recessed in view of a first adjoining outer section adjoiningsaid first recessed outer section, said first adjoining outer sectionproximal to the first end of the object, and said second recessed outersection at least partly, preferably entirely, inwardly recessed in viewof a second adjoining outer section adjoining said second recessed outersection, said second adjoining outer section proximal to the second endof the object; wherein the aperture of the first secondary packagingwithout considering the retention tabs thereof is adapted to allowpassage of the objects at said first end at least up to the firstrecessed outer section, and wherein the retention tabs extend inwardlyover a distance so as to all extend into the first recessed outersection when the object is inserted into the aperture with the first endof the object; wherein the aperture of the second secondary packagingwithout considering the retention tabs thereof is adapted to allowpassage of the objects at said second end at least up to the secondrecessed outer section, and wherein the retention tabs extend inwardlyover a distance so as to all extend into the second recessed outersection when the object is inserted into the aperture with the secondend of the object.
 19. Assembly according to claim 17, wherein theobjects are cylindrical containers, preferably cans, comprising a doubleseam along the perimeter of the first end of the container, said doubleseam functioning as the adjoining outer section proximal to the firstend of the object.